14 Ways to be Stylish While in Sweden
After spending a few days in Stockholm for their fashion week (H&M was my host), I realized that there is plenty of style to see beyond the runway. The country that brought us IKEA, Alexander Skarsgard, Henrik Lundqvist and Frida Gustavsson, is full of other fabulous treasures from neighborhoods to indie labels. Here’s a few tips to play like a local.
PLACES TO SHOP
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SODERMALM
Sodermalm is located in the southern region of Stockholm. With stores like APLACE (the Swedish Urban Outfitters) and Weekday (known for their jeans), this charming neighborhood features an eclectic mix of vintage shops and super trendy stores.
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BIBLIOTEKSTAN
Known as the city’s Madison Avenue, this centrally located shopping district is the home to luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada and Michael Kors. After you’ve worked your credit card at the shops, you can enjoy a post splurge meal at Café Riche and Sture Huf, considered to be two of the city’s best restaurants.
SWEDISH BRANDS
WEEKDAY
H&M’s COS and & Other Stories might have arrived stateside but you’ll have to travel abroad to check out Weekday. Considered by the locals as the ‘hip’ version of H&M, the brand known for their ‘weekday’ jeans— each style named after a different day of the week. There’s also a great selection of basics and outerwear pieces.
MONKI
For any girl wanting to dress like a trendsetting Scandinavian, Monki is the store for you. This retail chain, which is also owned by H&M has a great selection ranging from coats to shoes. From their a-line skirts to their polka dot crop tops, the selection of statement pieces are endless.
WHY RED
From their floral cocktail dresses to the men’s classic bomber jackets, this brand is all about laid back elegance. Think classic pieces like the chunky knit sweaters and parkas with a modern twist.
STUTTERHEIM
With their overcast skies and unpredictable rainstorms, it’s no surprise that one of the best raincoat companies comes from the Swedish capital. This brand is also a huge advocate for equal rights. Selling a rainbow raincoat called the ‘ Vladimir’, 15% of the proceeds go to GLBTQ organizations. Lucky for you, these coats can be found stateside in retail stores like Barneys NY and Dover Street Market NY.
MINIMARKET
Known for their bold, vibrant prints, this contemporary women’s wear label is known for their fun approach to fashion. With selections ranging from printed kimono tops to bright silk trousers, there’s an assortment of option for the fun loving fashionista.
A.O. CMS
I’m an addict for great basic tees and sweaters and I’m always on the hunt to find new brands. From the fit of the tees to the softness of the cotton, this is hands down, my current favorite. You won’t regret stocking up on tees, tanks and underwear from this brand.
TWIST & TANGO
With their fun and eclectic take on womenswear, this brand is for the girl looking for those core pieces like the perfect navy trouser to the classic moto jacket.
TO EAT
STUREHOF
This restaurant located in the Bibliotekstan district attracts the who’s who of the city’s creative scene. When entering the restaurant, wait staffs clothed in white or red military styled jackets greet you. For starters, their toast skagen – a shrimp salad over toasted buttered bread is the perfect introduction to local cuisine. Don’t miss the grilled lobster and fried duck breast.
CAFÉ RICHE
Although this restaurant décor screams Paris, the food is an international smorgasbord. Try the Swedish meatballs a favorite amongst locals. However, if meatballs aren’t your thing, the Steak Tartare ‘Riche’ is definitely an option you won’t regret.
B.A.R (Blasieholmens Akvarium o Restaurang)
Located near the central harbor of Stockholm, this restaurant with its ceramic white tiled walls and industrial furniture is super chic. The food is just as fabulous. Opt for some of the local fish dishes like the ‘fish and shellfish grill’, where the customer gets to hand pick their own selection of assortment of local fishes.
PLACES TO STAY
NOBIS HOTEL
Nestled between Acne Studios and Prada, this boutique hotel in the trendy Bibliotekstan district is the place to stay if you want to be in the center of it all.
STORY
With two Stockholm locations, Story Hotel is the city’s version of “Ace Hotel. ” The décor is a mix of modern touches and antique fixtures. Have a drink in the lobby and mix with some of the city’s most stylish crowd.
